The best place to start, if you’re worried about your own or a loved one’s mental health, is to make an appointment to see your GP. Your doctor can review how you are going, consider any underlying medical conditions, and may be able to refer you to funded services.

Gumboot Friday is an organisation championed by Mike King. This non-profit relies on generous donations to provide free counselling to young people, aged 25 years or under. This is a great cause to support. Find out more here: www.gumbootfriday.org.nz

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Most workplaces have Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) in place for their staff. There are several different EAP providers, and different counsellors and psychologists that work for each provider. Ask your employer if there is an EAP scheme you can access.

Southern Cross Health Insurance began taking mental health seriously in 2022. As a result they have included up to three funded therapy sessions as part of most policies. Check your policy if you have cover under Southern Cross.

Unfortunately there is limited access to quality mental health services for many people in New Zealand. In this case you may have to look at funding therapy sessions privately. Each therapist has their own set hourly rate, which may range from $150 to $250 an hour, depending on their qualifications, skills, and experience.